"Pressure in the ship. One-third atmosphere."

"Twenty seconds."

"Ship secure for space."

"Ten, nine, eight—"

I lay prone on the steel deck, braced myself and prayed.

"Seven, six, five—"

"Gyros on. Course set."

"Four, three, two—"

The ship trembled. A great light flared beyond the curving transparency of the blister.

"Up ship!"